Surprisingly high Chemical exposure before Kindergarten
Headline: Young children in the US are exposed to a large quantity of possibly toxic chemicals before ever stepping foot inside a kindergarten classroom,
The reason this new study is concerning is because we know early childhood is a critical window for brain and body development.
Prenatal and early life exposure to environmental chemicals can increase the risk of multiple adverse child health outcomes early and later in life.
Young children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of harmful chemicals. The reason is that their bodies are still developing. Even low levels of exposure during early life can have long-lasting effects, including on brain development, metabolism, and immune function
This study, led by researchers from the Univ of California Davis, analyzed urine samples from 201 children ages 2-4, and their mothers, measuring levels of 111 chemicals linked to health concerns including hormone disruption and developmental delays., of kids ages 2 to 4.
Findings:
34 chemicals were found in over 90% of participants — many at higher levels than were detected during pregnancy.
48 chemicals were found in more than half the children
96 of those chemicals were found in at least five children
What chemicals ?
Phthalates and phthalate alternatives used in plastics like toys and food packaging, as well as personal care products and household items.
Parabens commonly used in cosmetics, lotions, shampoos and pharmaceuticals.
Bisphenols found in plastic containers, food can linings and thermal paper receipts.
Benzophenones found in sunscreens, cosmetics and plastics.
Pesticides used in agricultural and residential pest control.
Organophosphate esters (OPEs) used as flame retardants in furniture and building materials and as plasticizers in food packaging.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), byproducts of combustion found in vehicle exhaust, grilled foods and tobacco smoke.
Bactericides found in antibacterial soaps and personal care products.
Of note
Firstborn children had significantly lower chemical levels than their younger siblings.
Chemical levels were often higher in younger children (age 2) than in 3- or 4-year-olds.
An alternative plasticizer, DINCH (commonly used in “ phthalate free” plastics like pvc), and emerging pesticides, such as the neonicotinoid acetamiprid, pyrethroid pesticides, and the herbicide 2,4-, showed an upward trend.
On a positive note Levels of triclosan, parabens, PAHs and most phthalates decreased over the years the samples were collected (from 2010 to 2021). This is likely due to the phasing out of trickle from antimicrobial, soaps and gels, and the popularity of “ phthalate free” products which are using other plasticizers instead.
children had higher levels of several chemicals than their mothers did during pregnancy. These included two phthalates, bisphenol S (often used as a BPA replacement) and the pesticide biomarkers 3-PBA and trans-DCCA.
Source of exposure
Exposures came from everyday activities such as eating, breathing, and touching surfaces. It would make sense that the youngest of the children had the highest levels of chemicals on one hand because their bodies are smaller and less developed, but also because this is the age when toddlers place almost everything in their mouths
How can you make sure your child is exposed to less harmful chemicals?
If you’ve been following for a while, you know I have tons of tips but some basic reminders that go a very long way
Wash hands often since a common exposure route in little kids is hands to mouth ( non toxic soap I like: Primally Pure ( shop here https://link.primallypure.com/3littleplums3 discount code: 3LITTLEPLUMS ) Branch Basics, ( SHOP HERE. https://branchbasics.com/AIDASPICKS DISCOUNT CODE: AIDASPICKS , Dr Bronnors ( SHOP HERE : https://amzn.to/41ihhdW ) Aleavia )
Avoid/ reduce plastic in toys, kitchenware and when possible food containers
Never heat food or drinks in plastic
Eat organic when possible ( prioritize fruits and vegetables, fatty foods like meats, cheese, milk, poultry)
Eat meals made with fresh whole foods and drastically limit processed foods
Clean regularly- limit dust since chemicals often migrate to dust
Use non-toxic cleaning products ( i use Branch Basics (. SHOP HERE. https://branchbasics.com/AIDASPICKS DISCOUNT CODE: AIDASPICKS) , Force of Nature)
Filter you’re drinking water with either reverse as buses or a multi stage carbon filter ( good filters I have used include those by Aquatru ( SHOP HERE: https://aquatruwater.com/?oid=2&affid=5&c=nontoxicmunchkin or SHOP AMAZON HERE ( https://amzn.to/4kQlPOX) , Pure Effects)
Make your home environment lower tox by choosing natural, not chemically treated materials. This means: natural cotton, linen, wool, hemp for curtains/upholstery/ carpeting, solid wood furniture, choose slipcovers and machine washable instead of performance fabrics, organic mattresses etc
Full study: